Ciao   

When Piero Potenza moved to the Triangle from New York City in early 2003, he saw that downtown Cary could use a little after-hours life. So he opened Ciao, a quaint and cozy wine bar that, with just 31 seats, warm candlelight wall sconces and European background music, makes you wonder why a place like this is just now making its way to the area. Along with a selection of 20 wines by the glass is a menu of light dishes such as ceviche, shrimp salad served in a martini glass and a host of sandwiches, salads and cheeses. A sample plate of their 13 cheeses, which includes Parmigiano-Reggiano and pecorino, is a great accompaniment to Ciao's ever-changing wine list. The wine bar has no stove, so you can be assured everything is prepared fresh. There is, however, an oven, which is used to bake fresh breads and desserts daily. This is a welcome place to quiet Cary, a place you'll definitely want to visit more than once. -- Erica Hinton